Idle Device Suspension via Timeout Policies
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power management strategies for electronic devices require manual intervention to suspend idle connected devices, leading to inefficient power usage if not suspended at appropriate times.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a method where a host processor automatically suspends idle input/output (I/O) devices by accessing drivers that specify idle policies with timeout values for each device and communication channel, determining device idleness, and placing the device into a low-power state after a predetermined idle period.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If manual power management strategy is used, then device complexity is reduced, but power efficiency deteriorates because the device cannot automatically suspend idle connected devices
Solution Approach 1:
The host processor automatically monitors I/O device status and suspends idle devices without requiring manual user intervention. The system self-manages power consumption by detecting when connected devices are idle and autonomously placing them in low-power states, thereby improving power efficiency while maintaining manageable complexity through automated control.
2Loss of energy
If automatic suspension of idle devices is implemented, then power efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional monitoring and control mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The host processor continuously monitors the operational status of connected I/O devices and uses this feedback to determine when suspension is appropriate. By implementing a feedback loop that tracks device activity and automatically triggers suspension based on monitored parameters, the system reduces power consumption while managing complexity through structured monitoring protocols.
3Productivity
If manual suspension process is used, then ease of operation is maintained, but productivity decreases due to inefficient power usage
Solution Approach 1:
The power management system operates autonomously without requiring user intervention to suspend idle devices. The host processor automatically detects idle conditions and executes suspension actions, thereby improving productivity through efficient power management while maintaining ease of operation as the system handles power management transparently in the background.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for suspending an idle device includes receiving, by a processor, an indication that a device having a communication channel is connected to a host device. The method then includes determining a first timeout value associated with the communication channel and a second timeout value associated with the first device. The first timeout value corresponds to an amount of time allotted for an operation to complete in the communication channel, and the second timeout value corresponds to an amount of time allotted for the device to be designated as idle before the device is suspended. The device is determined to be idle when the operation is pending in the communication channel for an amount of time that is greater than the first timeout value. The device is suspended when the device has been idle for an amount of time that is greater than the second timeout value.